Steven Smith

A North Yorkshire mother who survived early-stage uterine adenosarcoma now faces daily cognitive and physical challenges caused by surgical menopause following a hysterectomy and ovary removal. Despite being cancer‑free, she experiences severe brain fog, fatigue and joint pain, affecting her work and family life. Her symptoms began years before diagnosis, with persistent heavy bleeding eventually leading to the discovery of a large tumour. She has since sought support from the charity Menopause and Cancer and attends groups in York while advocating for better integration of menopause expertise within cancer treatment. Research indicates most women over 40 enter permanent menopause as a result of cancer therapies.

Maximum fines for fly-tipping will rise to £5,000 and penalties for street littering will increase to £750 as part of new government measures taking effect this summer. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds framed the changes as a crackdown on environmental offences, while local authorities will retain discretion to determine penalties based on severity. Updated guidance also instructs councils on identifying and seizing vehicles involved in fly-tipping.

A young couple from Pontefract secured their first home for £156,000 with only £600 in savings by using Skipton Building Society’s Track Record Mortgage, which allows renters who consistently meet rental payments to buy without a deposit. After turning 21, the qualifying age for the scheme, Saffron and Reece Green were able to purchase and begin renovating their home. Skipton’s head of mortgage products highlights growing financial pressures on renters and describes the scheme as a way to help them overcome deposit barriers, noting that many borrowers now pay less on their mortgage than they previously paid in rent.